Date: 20 February 2013
Muslim-friendly holidays in Kansai.
KUALA LUMPUR: Japan is certainly not “horsing around” with
the popularity of K-pop and the region of Kansai is going all out to woo
visitors to its rich history and unique culture.
Kyoto Prefecture governor Keiji Yamada said Kansai is a
centre of culture and industry. “We have the beauty of the four seasons, with
our sakura blossoms, and autumn leaves. We also have hot springs, golf courses,
beautiful scenery and a unique culture.” Keiji said during a visit to Wisma
MATTA here yesterday.
The governor added that Kansai was a region that was very
friendly for Muslim tourism. “In Kansai International Airport, there are
displays to show which foods are halal, as well as prayer rooms. Kansai also
has about 30 restaurants serving Muslim-friendly food,” he said.
Keiji added that 2013 was Kansai International Tourism Year
and there would be various expos in Osaka spotlighting its unique food from
April 26 to May 6.
“Kansai also has a rich history as it was the capital of
Japan for over 1,100 years until the Meiji restoration, when it was moved to
Tokyo. Because of this, it has about 60 architectural historical treasures,” he
said. Other attractions include the Wakayama Prefecture and Universal Studios
Japan.
MATTA president Datuk Mohd Khalid Harun said the association
was also promoting Malaysia as a tourist destination in Japan, particularly its
latest attractions such as Legoland and Hello Kitty World.
He added that it was very convenient for Malaysians to
travel to Kansai due to the wide availability of flights there by Malaysia
Airlines and Air Asia X, among others.
“The number of Japanese coming to Malaysia is more than
Malaysians going to Japan. However, we hope that with new developments, Kansai
will receive more Malaysian visitors.” Mohd Khalid said, adding they would be
promoting Kansai in MATTA fairs here and Kota Kinabalu.
By TERENCE TOH terence.toh@thestar.com.my
Copyright @ 1995-2012 Star Publications (M) Bhd
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